San Diego Padres’ second baseman Jake Cronenworth has been activated from the 10-day injured list ahead of Friday night’s game against the Colorado Rockies. Cronenworth’s return follows an absence of over four weeks due to a fractured rib, sustained after being hit by a pitch during a game against the Chicago Cubs on April 6. Despite battling through the injury initially, he had to leave a subsequent game against the Athletics because of intensifying pain.
To accommodate Cronenworth’s return, the Padres optioned outfielder Oscar Gonzalez to Triple-A El Paso. In the nine games he played this season before his injury, Cronenworth recorded a .257 batting average, with a notable .409 on-base percentage, including two home runs and five RBIs.
Now in his sixth season with the Padres and a two-time All-Star, the 31-year-old has a career batting average of .247, with a tally of 71 home runs and 315 RBIs over 658 games. Despite the challenges posed by the injuries to Cronenworth and fellow All-Star Jackson Merrill—who recently returned after missing 24 games due to a right hamstring injury—the Padres have managed to maintain a strong 23-13 record, positioning them fourth in the majors.
This positive swing can be seen as a testament to the team’s depth and resilience, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level even with key players sidelined. The return of Cronenworth could further bolster the Padres’ chances as they continue their pursuit in the season.